Perception of 3D-printing: analysis of manufacturing use and adoption

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify ways in which five technology adoption theories converge to enhance insight on 3D-printing perceptions and adoption. Design/methodology/approach A total of 63 structured interviews were conducted with top management professionals from a variety of manufacturing organizations throughout the USA. After controlling for top management decision power, total of 35 interviews and non-parametric statistical analyses were used in conjunction with innovation adoption theory to derive four propositions. Findings Results show five adoption theories converge to create a new adoption model specific to 3D-printing. Results also suggests differences specific to users, potential users and non-users. Originality/value Results delineate between current, potential and non-users to better understand adoption. Dissimilar to current qualitative research, quantitative (non-parametric) techniques are used to examine the viability of the propositions. Further, the results use various adoption theories to determine convergences specific to 3D-printing.